Range Shifts

Old newspapers track porpoise populations across the Baltic Sea

Nature loss brings catastrophic risks – new report

A new report highlights the catastrophic risks of nature loss on food systems, economies and societies. Chronic pressures like soil degradation and water scarcity are already reducing crop yields and increasing food prices.

Beavers leave a trail as they head into the Arctic

Researchers use tree rings and satellites to date changes beavers make to the tundra landscape as they spread northwards. The study provides evidence of beaver colonization in the region starting in 2008, with satellite analysis revealing a significant expansion of surface water between 2015 and 2019.

Wildfires an increasing threat for species during climate change

A study by researchers at the University of Gothenburg finds that wildfires pose an ever-increasing threat to biodiversity, with nearly 84% of vulnerable species facing a higher risk by the end of this century. Climate action can reduce the occurrence of wildfires and mitigate the risks to species worldwide.

Climate projections warn 20% of Colombia’s cocoa-growing areas could be lost by 2050, but adaptation options remain

Climate projections warn that nearly 20% of Colombia's cocoa-growing areas could lose suitable climate conditions by 2050, particularly in the Caribbean region. However, adaptation options such as wild cocoa, agroforestry systems, and conservation of native forests may help mitigate these impacts.

Magdalen Islands’ peatlands hold vital clues about ancient Atlantic hurricanes, Concordia research finds

Scientists analyzed peatland samples to reconstruct 4,000-year history of storm activity in the northwestern Atlantic. The study found increased storminess in three periods: 800-550 BCE, 500-750 CE, and 1300-1700 CE, which aligns with eastern Canada records.

Concordia study finds snow droughts in western and southern Canada could affect nearly all Canadians

A new method developed by Concordia researchers shows how small but widespread snowpack declines can ripple across Canada's water supply. The study found that usable snow water has declined sharply in areas of the Canadian Rockies, affecting a quarter of Canada's land mass and 86% of its population.

Arctic seas are getting louder as ice melts, posing risks – study shows how to better measure noise

The Arctic is experiencing a rise in human-generated underwater noise due to melting ice and increased activity, disrupting wildlife and local communities. A new study from the University of Bath provides a clear framework for monitoring noise in Arctic waters, urging authorities to revise thresholds used to assess noise levels.

A two-week leap in breeding: Antarctic penguins’ striking climate adaptation

A decade-long study found that Antarctic penguin species are adapting to a changing environment by advancing their breeding seasons. Gentoo penguins showed the greatest change, with an average advance of 13 days per decade, making them vulnerable to declining food availability and ecosystem collapse.

For Australia’s marine life, “safe zones” from climate change may disappear within 15 years

A new study finds that even Australia's most protected marine areas will likely suffer extreme climate shocks by 2040, threatening thousands of marine species. The effects will be widespread, with 'safe havens' disappearing as ocean conditions considered extreme today become the new normal.

Unique videos show how trawling restrictions brings back life to the sea

A new study from the University of Gothenburg reveals that trawling restrictions have led to a significant increase in marine life, particularly among filter-feeding species like mussels and soft corals. However, heat-sensitive species are declining at shallow depths due to warmer water temperatures, driven by climate change.

By studying yellow warbler, researchers hope to better understand response to rapid climate change in wild species

A new research paper from Colorado State University finds that precipitation levels are the key environmental factor influencing genetic variation in the warbler's beak, which is crucial for heat retention. The study reveals that birds struggling to adapt to climate change experience higher stress levels and population declines.

Fishy forensics improves tracking of fish migrations

A new approach combines environmental DNA and visual surveys to track tropical fish migration patterns. This method improves knowledge of ocean species shifts due to climate change, revealing hidden species and enhancing detection rates for both methods.

Climate change could erase 80% of whitebark pine’s current habitat across the Rockies and Northwest

The study found that climate change could lead to an 80% loss of whitebark pine habitat across the Rockies and Northwest, impacting wildlife and human-dependent ecosystems. The tree's unique relationship with the Clark's nutcracker bird makes it a crucial food source for squirrels and grizzly bears.

Tropical fishes on the move survive better with temperate neighbours

Research found that tropical fish in mixed shoals learn new behaviours to thrive on temperate reefs, boosting survival. In contrast, temperate fish species suffer when facing tropical competitors.

Climate crisis could force wild vanilla plants and pollinating insects apart, threatening global supply

A new study finds that climate change may cause a reduced overlap of suitable habitats for wild vanilla plants and their pollinating insects, threatening the survival of natural populations. This could lead to plant-pollinator decoupling, negatively affecting the future of the global food industry.

Save twice the ice by limiting global warming

A new study finds that limiting global warming to 1.5°C could save twice as much glacier ice as current policies, which project an average of +2.7°C. This would mitigate 10cm of sea-level rise and preserve up to 39% of global glacier mass.

When the sea moves inland: A global climate wake-up call from Bangladesh’s Delta

A new study reveals rising oceans are pushing saltwater into freshwater rivers and underground water sources in Bangladesh's Bengal Delta. This study offers important lessons for vulnerable coastal regions worldwide.

Should we protect non-native species? A new study says maybe

A new study finds that over a quarter of naturalised plant species worldwide are threatened in parts of their native range, raising questions about global conservation efforts. The researchers argue for a nuanced approach to evaluating non-native species, acknowledging both risks and potential conservation opportunities.

Shorter and warmer winters may expand the hibernation area of bats in Europe

A new study predicts that common noctule bats' hibernation areas will shift northeastward by up to 14% by 2100 due to warmer winters. The model accurately tracks the northward range shift of this species over the past 50 years, driven by shorter and warmer winters in Europe.

Planetary boundaries: Confronting the global crisis of land degradation; Potsdam institute report opens UNCCD COP 16

The report charts a course correction for how the world grows food and uses land, highlighting the central role of land in maintaining Earth's stability. Land degradation is undermining the planet's capacity to support humanity, with seven out of nine planetary boundaries negatively impacted by unsustainable land use.

The trees of Miami’s future

A new study suggests that Miami's native trees may not survive in the coming decades due to global warming, but tropical species can thrive and provide shade. The research recommends planting trees from the Caribbean region, such as black olive and gumbo-limbo trees, to mitigate the heat island effect and absorb carbon dioxide.

Tube sock-like skunk covers more ground than deer, impacted by winter weather, study finds

A study found that western spotted skunks have a home range of up to 12 square miles, exceeding similar size mammals and even deer. The skunks' extensive range is likely due to limited food resources. Their sensitivity to winter weather also raises concerns about climate change impacts.

Urban forests reduce heat-related mortality, study shows

A new study shows that urban forests within walkable distance from residential areas are crucial in reducing heat-related health risks. Researchers found that nearby forests have a pronounced impact on reducing mortality risks, particularly those within 1 kilometre of residential areas.

Experts warn climate change will fuel spread of infectious diseases

The study highlights the emergence and spread of harmful pathogens due to climate change. The medical community must update their education and training to combat global warming and its impact on disease behavior.

Range-shifting fishes are climate-change losers, according to new research

Research reveals that rapid-range shift in fish populations is often a sign of impending decline. The study analyzed data from over 2,500 species and found that those shifting at high velocities show marked declines, while core range populations remain relatively stable.

Permafrost alone holds back Arctic rivers — and a lot of carbon

New research reveals permafrost's dominant role in shaping Arctic rivers and storing massive amounts of carbon. Thawing permafrost could unleash billions of tons of CO2, exacerbating climate change.

New study identifies the best areas for rewilding European bison

A new study identifies the best regions for rewilding European bison, pinpointing areas where conservation efforts can be most effective. The research suggests that understanding the species' decline is crucial to ensuring long-term protection and recovery.

Riding the whims of the wind

Researchers develop a mathematical model that analyzes the future survival of plants in a changing climate by studying how far wind can carry seeds. The model provides fast and reliable predictions of seed movement, considering factors like seed type, plant height, and wind speed.

Your local sea snail might not make it in warmer oceans – but oysters will

Local sea snails, such as the frilled dog winkle, are vulnerable to warming oceans due to their inability to adapt or migrate. In contrast, species like oysters and northern anchovies, which are tolerant of heat, may survive in warmer waters.

Climate catastrophe produced instantaneous evolutionary change

In the wake of Hurricane Harvey's record flooding, researchers discovered a unique form of evolutionary change called spatial sorting that dominated the evolution of Jadera haematoloma bugs. This rapid adaptation allowed them to access seeds on goldenrain trees, outcompeting native species with longer beaks.

Tracking species range shifts in a changing climate

A novel method to monitor range shifts of protected organisms and expanding noxious species has been developed. By marking the average position of the 'connectivity limit' over time, researchers offer a statistically reliable approach to tracking changes in species distributions.

Multiple ecosystems in hot water after marine heatwave surges across the Pacific

A study found that even no-take MPAs in California and globally are vulnerable to marine heatwaves, leading to mass species mortality and displacement. The research revealed that ecological communities shift dramatically after such events, regardless of protection status.

Climate change to push species over abrupt tipping points

A new study predicts that climate change will expose species to potentially dangerous temperatures, leading to an abrupt loss of habitat. The research found that up to 30% of species will be at risk of experiencing unfamiliarly hot temperatures across at least 30% of their geographic range in a single decade.

Human-wildlife conflicts rising worldwide with climate change

A new study reveals climate-driven conflicts between humans and wildlife are on the rise globally, with six continents experiencing exacerbation of these conflicts. The research identifies trends in human-wildlife conflicts linked to climate change, including altered animal habitats, resource availability, and changes in wildlife behav...

Wine forecast: Britain could be Chardonnay champions by 2050

A study by the University of Reading found that up to 20-25% of UK land may be suitable for growing high-quality Chardonnay still wines by 2050. The regions with the best conditions are expected to be South East England, East of England, and Central England.

Entomologists issue warning about effects of climate change on insects

A team of 70 scientists warns that climate change will drastically reduce the ability to build a sustainable future based on healthy ecosystems. Insects face extinction and ecosystem disruption due to global warming and extreme weather events.

Can fungi help Texas’ grasses cope with climate change?

A new study by Rice University biologist Tom Miller explores the role of fungi in determining the range limits of plants in Texas. The research reveals that fungal partnerships improve drought tolerance and could potentially extend the range of grasses in response to climate change.

In a hotter world, air conditioning isn’t a luxury, it’s a lifesaver

As extreme heatwaves ravage the globe, scientists warn that only 8% of the world's poorest people have access to air conditioning. By 2050, 70% of the population may require AC, with 92% needed in India and Indonesia. This demands massive infrastructure upgrades to prevent lives from being lost.

British coral predicted to be resilient to climate change

A new study by the University of Exeter predicts that the pink sea fan coral species will expand its range northwards along the British coast as global temperatures rise. The research found suitable habitat for the species beyond its current northern limits, indicating potential spread by 2100.

Trees on the move: Stanford researchers reveal how wildfire accelerates forest changes

A new Stanford analysis provides empirical evidence that wildfire is accelerating tree species range shifts toward cooler, wetter sites. The study found that two species had larger range shifts in areas burned by wildfire.

Protected areas help waterbirds adapt to climate change

Protected areas facilitate wintering waterbird adaptation to climate warming, with species shifting faster inside protected areas. This suggests that protected area networks can contribute to expanding species ranges and preventing local extinctions.

Movers and stayers: Surviving a range shift due to climate change

A new study reveals that traditional predictions of species movement due to climate change may be inaccurate. Broad diets were found to be a crucial factor in the establishment and persistence of tropical fish in cooler areas.

Balancing impacts of range-shifting species: Invasives vs. biodiversity

A new perspective paper proposes reconciling differing views on range-shifting species to improve management. The authors suggest using the Environmental Impact Classification of Alien Taxa (EICAT) to assess risk and develop management priorities.

Species extinction and survival under climate change

A study analyzing climate-associated range shifts found larger temperature increases linked to extinctions. Niche shifts may allow some species to survive, reducing predicted extinctions to 30%. The analysis suggests niche shifts are more important for species survival under climate change than range shifts.

The importance of 'edge populations' to biodiversity

A study published in Ecology Letters found that edge populations of plants, such as yellow rattle, are better suited to surviving climate change. These populations have adapted to high-elevation summers by flowering earlier, allowing them to thrive in areas where lower elevation populations fail.

Seaweed replacement by coral under climate change

A study models ocean community shifts driven by temperature gradients and ocean currents under climate change. Coral species expand rapidly while kelp species retreat quickly.

Climate and nesting in California birds

A study found that California bird species are shifting their breeding dates to remain in preferred temperature zones. By nesting earlier, they reduce the need for range shifts and conserve thermal niches.

Going with the flow: The forces that affect species' movements in a changing climate

A new study reveals that ocean currents affect how climate change impacts species' distributions, leading to changes in ecosystems and human health implications. Species expand their range faster when ocean currents match the direction of warming.

As the oceans warm, wide-ranging species will have an edge

Marine species with wide-latitude ranges and high adult mobility are extending their territories fastest in response to climate change. This study provides new insights into how different traits impact marine animals' ability to adapt to warmer oceans.

Ecologists question effects of climate change on infectious diseases

A new review sparks debate over climate change's effect on pathogens, with some arguing it may reduce their ranges in affluent regions. However, others believe disease expansion could occur in areas where humans settle high latitudes and altitudes.